Sylvan Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sylvan Dam, located in Summit County, Ohio, is a federal-owned structure on the Cuyahoga River managed by the National Park Service.


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Summary

The earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 42 acre-feet. Although the dam's primary purpose is not specified, it is deemed to have a high hazard potential, indicating the potential risk it poses to downstream communities in the event of a failure.

Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment of Sylvan Dam is listed as "Not Available," indicating a lack of recent evaluation of its safety and integrity. The last inspection date was in December 2015, with no set inspection frequency specified. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status for the dam is also unclear, with no information on its preparedness or compliance with guidelines. These factors suggest a need for further monitoring and evaluation of Sylvan Dam to ensure the safety of surrounding areas and the integrity of the structure.

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

CUYAHOGA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

42

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.